Runza Casserole: A Hearty Midwestern Classic
Few dishes embody Midwestern comfort food like Runza casserole. This delicious and simple-to-make recipe transforms the classic flavors of a traditional Runza sandwich into a baked casserole that the whole family will love. Featuring layers of ground beef, cabbage, and crescent roll dough, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home.
Ingredients for Runza Casserole
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 can of crescent roll dough
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions for Making Runza Casserole
1. Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until the cabbage softens. Season with salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Remove from heat and set aside.
Suggested Internal Link: If you love ground beef-based recipes, don’t miss out on our Ground Beef Enchilada Casserole for another family favorite that’s quick and easy to make.
2. Assemble the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Roll out one can of crescent roll dough and press it into the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the beef and cabbage mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top. Cover with the second can of crescent roll dough.
3. Bake the Casserole
Brush the top layer of crescent roll dough with melted butter. Bake the casserole for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling.
Suggested External Link: For additional tips on baking the perfect crescent rolls, check out this guide on flaky pastry techniques.
Why Runza Casserole is the Perfect Family Meal
Runza casserole has all the elements of a satisfying meal—protein from the ground beef, vegetables from the cabbage, and the comforting flavors of buttery crescent roll dough. It’s a versatile dish that can be made ahead and reheated, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Suggested Internal Link: If you’re looking for more make-ahead meals, try our Crockpot Chicken and Rice for a set-it-and-forget-it dinner solution.
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Runza Casserole: Add extra shredded cheese between the layers of dough for a gooey, cheesy finish.
- Spicy Runza Casserole: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture for a little heat.
- Vegetarian Runza Casserole: Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth for seasoning.
Tips for the Perfect Runza Casserole
- Make sure to cook off any excess moisture from the cabbage to avoid a soggy bottom layer of dough.
- For a flakier top layer, brush the crescent roll dough with a mixture of melted butter and garlic powder before baking.
- Let the casserole sit for 5-10 minutes after baking to make slicing and serving easier.
How to Serve Runza Casserole
This hearty casserole can be served as a main dish alongside simple sides like a green salad or steamed vegetables. It’s also great for potlucks or family gatherings where comfort food is always a hit. For an extra touch, serve it with a side of tangy sour cream or mustard for dipping.
Suggested Internal Link: Pair this casserole with our Garlic Roasted Vegetables for a delicious, balanced meal that everyone will love.
Storing and Reheating Runza Casserole
- Refrigeration: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Runza casserole freezes well. Simply wrap portions in aluminum foil and place them in freezer bags for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make Runza casserole ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole up to the baking step, refrigerate it, and bake it when you’re ready to serve. You can also bake it ahead of time and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use other vegetables in this casserole?
A: Yes! While cabbage is traditional, you can add shredded carrots, spinach, or mushrooms for additional flavor and nutrition.
Q: What kind of cheese works best in this recipe?
A: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice for its sharp, savory flavor, but mozzarella or Swiss cheese work well too.
Suggested External Link: Looking for more casserole recipes? Visit Best Casserole Dishes for Comfort Food to explore a variety of easy, family-friendly dishes.
Conclusion
Runza casserole is a delightful fusion of hearty beef, tender cabbage, and flaky crescent roll dough, making it the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a potluck, this easy casserole will quickly become a go-to recipe.
Suggested Internal Link: For more casserole inspiration, check out our Baked Ziti Casserole, perfect for an Italian twist on classic comfort food.
External Links for Further Reading
- Guide to Perfect Crescent Rolls
Anchor text: perfect crescent rolls
Link: https://example.com/perfect-crescent-rolls - Best Midwest Casserole Recipes
Anchor text: Midwest casserole recipes
Link: https://example.com/midwest-casserole-recipes - Comfort Food Casseroles for Busy Families
Anchor text: comfort food casseroles
Link: https://example.com/comfort-food-casseroles
